Elimination of Single-use Styrofoam Containers Bill Passes

May 21, 2019

HB 5384, An Act Requiring the Elimination of Single-use Styrofoam Containers receives bipartisan support and passes the House earlier today.

The bill aims to address environmental and health concerns by prohibiting the use of polystyrene containers by restaurants and other food establishments. Polystyrene products are not easily recyclable and are not biodegradable. Additionally, many have argued that these products also have negative public health implications. When heated, the chemical components that make up polystyrene, styrene and benzene, are broken down and released. According to the Department of Health and Human Services, these chemicals are potential carcinogens.

This would reduce the waste we see on streets and protect our environment which is at risk. Thank you to the Legislature for taking necessary action to preserve our community and state.

The bill will now be considered by the Senate and to learn more, click here.